Baja California - Mexico - HISTORY.com Baja California A+E Networks Introduction Tourists flock to Baja California—separated from the rest of Mexico by the Sea of Cortez—to visit its stunning shoreline and test their mettle at sport fishing. The state’s border crossing at Tijuana is the busiest in all of Mexico. The international port of Ensenada, located on the Pacific coast, is a regular stop for cruise ships. Since it is the only deepwater port in Baja California, it acts as the primary hub for importing and exporting goods throughout the region. History Early History Before the Spaniards arrived, the peninsula of Baja California was inhabited by three major ethnic groups: the Cochimí in the north, the Guaycura in the central section and the Pericú on the southern cape. Archaeological artifacts suggest that these tribes inhabited the peninsula and Cedros Island as early as 9,000-10,000 years ago. The Cochimí, who lived on the mainland, were hunters and gatherers, but an isolated group of Cochimí living on Cedros Island developed a fairly complex agricultural system. The Guaycura and the Pericú lived by hunting, gathering and fishing.

Their descendants still live in Baja California, primarily on the northernmost part of the peninsula. Did You Know? When the Spaniards arrived in the Baja California area in 1539, they believed they had reached a mythical island of female warriors governed by Queen Calafia. The earliest record of this myth appears in The Exploits of the Very Powerful Cavalier Esplandian, Son of the Excellent King Amadis of Gau, written by Garcia Ordonez de Montalvo 18 years earlier. Middle History After the Spanish conquered the Mexican mainland early in the 16th century, they began searching westward for a fabled island of gold. In 1532, the conquistador Hernán Cortés dispatched two fleets of ships to look for the island. When they failed to find it, Cortés decided to lead the search himself. In 1535, he landed north of La Paz (near the southern end of the Baja California peninsula) where he discovered black pearls but no gold. Cortés and his men returned to the mainland, only to launch another expedition in 1539 under the leadership of Captain Francisco de Ulloa.

This time the Spaniards sailed the full length of the Sea of Cortés, discovering that Baja was actually a peninsula. Conflicting reports state that Ulloa was stabbed to death or lost at sea the following year; in either case, Cortés returned to Spain in 1541 without fully exploring or colonizing Baja California. In 1542, Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo ventured into the region, but it proved to be the last exploration for 50 years. Later, as trade grew between Mexico and the Philippines, it became clear that a supply station on the western coast of Baja California would provide a welcome refuge for ships arriving from the long Pacific voyage. Beginning in 1592, Sebastián Vizcaíno undertook two expeditions to establish such a station, but he was unsuccessful because of repeated native resistance. In fact, a supply station would not be established in the area until 1730. In January 1683, the Spanish government provisioned three ships with 200 men and gave them a mandate to colonize the peninsula.

The expedition, led by Sinaloa’s governor Isidro de Atondo y Antillón, sailed into the Sea of Cortés and attempted its first settlement at La Paz; however, hostility from local tribes forced the expedition to move on. When a second settlement failed for the same reason, the expedition returned to the mainland. Twelve years later, in 1695, a Jesuit priest named Juan María Salvatierra established the region’s first permanent Spanish settlement, the Misión Nuestra Señora de Loreto, which quickly became the peninsula’s religious and administrative capital. Its success enabled other Jesuits to introduce more missions throughout the area—a total of 23 over the next 70 years. However, King Carlos III of Spain became wary of the Jesuits’ growing power and, in 1767, ordered that they be expelled at gunpoint and returned to Spain immediately. The Franciscans moved into the vacuum left by the Jesuits, and—under the authority of Father Junipero Serra—they closed or consolidated several of the existing missions and established one of their own, San Fernando Velicatá.

At the direction of the Spanish government, Father Serra continued to move north, where he established 21 new missions in Alta California (present-day California). In the late 1700s, the Dominicans became active in Baja California. By 1800, they had established nine new missions in the northern part of Baja and continued to oversee the existing Jesuit missions. The independence movement in Mexico began in 1810, but Baja California’s involvement was minimal, given its small population. The Spanish presence on the peninsula consisted primarily of missions, and the missions were closely linked to the Spanish crown. The end of Spanish rule in Mexico spelled the end of the missions’ administrative authority as well. After gaining its independence in 1821, Mexico established Baja California as a federal territory; in 1832, the governor converted all the missions into parish churches. Recent History The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) had major repercussions in Baja California. The war began after Mexico refused the United States’ offer to buy California, Nevada , Utah and parts of Colorado , Arizona , New Mexico and Wyoming .

In the treaty ending the war, Mexico gave in to U.S. demands and ceded the vast territory in exchange for $15 million. The original draft of the treaty included Baja California in the sale, but the United States eventually agreed to omit the peninsula because of its proximity to Sonora , which is located just across the narrow Sea of Cortés. In 1853, an American named William Walker invaded the peninsula with 50 mercenaries, intent on annexing the land for the United States. Although he had no support from the U.S. government, Walker sailed from San Francisco to La Paz, arrested the governor, took possession of the public buildings and raised the flag of a new republic. He even declared himself president and installed cabinet members. Without reinforcements, however, Walker was forced to retreat, first to Cabo San Lucas and eventually back across the border. Being so distant from Mexico City, Baja California was relatively insulated from much of the political and social turmoil that plagued Mexico during the latter part of the 19th century. However, the territory did play a pivotal role in the Mexican Revolution .

In 1911, a group called the Partido Liberal Mexicano (Liberal Mexican Party) organized a rebellion against the extended presidency of dictator Porfirio Díaz. Under Francisco Palomares and Pedro Ramirez Caule—both supporters of Francisco Madero, who initiated the Mexican Revolution in 1910—the rebel army took control of Mexicali in January 1911, followed by Tijuana in May. The success of the Partido Liberal Mexicano undermined the credibility of Díaz and the federal forces, encouraging rebel troops in other regions to join the fight. As the revolution drew to a close in 1921, Baja California aligned itself with the new president, Venustiano Carranza. Throughout the remainder of the 20th century, the state’s cititens chose their leaders from the dominant political party, the PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party), with the exception of Ernesto Ruffo, who was elected in 1989 as a representative of the PAN party.

On December 31, 1952, Baja California officially became Mexico’s 29th state, and in 1953 the state’s constitution was adopted. Previously, the region’s official name was Territorio Norte de Baja California, or Northern Territory of Baja California. Under the new constitution, Braulio Maldonado Sández of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) became the state’s first governor, presiding over a government whose unicameral legislative branch comprised 25 members. Baja California Today The state’s economy is bolstered by agriculture, maquiladoras (manufacturing assembly plants), mining and tourism. The state is also well known as a tourist destination, thanks to its countless beaches and proximity to the United States. With six border crossing points into the U.S. state of California, Baja California sees many thousand crossings each day. In 2000, an estimated 180,000 cars crossed the international border daily. Tijuana is the largest Baja California city. Its population continually fluctuates as people arrive from the United States and Latin America countries while others depart for the United States.

Baja California`s sports fans enjoy proximity to several professional teams: the Mexicali Suns (basketball), the Mexicali Eagles (baseball), the Tijuana Colts (baseball) and the Tijuana Xoloitzcuintles (soccer). Facts and Figures Major Cities (population): Tijuana (1,410,700) Mexicali (855,962) Ensenada (413,481) Tecate (91,021) Playas de Rosarito (73,305) Size/Area: 56,017 square miles Baja California - 10 Facts About This Mexican State Geography Expert By Amanda Briney Baja California is a state in northern Mexico and is the westernmost state in the country. It encompasses an area of 27,636 square miles (71,576 sq km) and borders the Pacific Ocean on the west, Sonora, Arizona and the Gulf of California on the east, Baja California Sur to the south and California to the north. By area, Baja California is the twelfth largest state in Mexico.

Mexicali is the capital of Baja California and over 75% of the population lives in that city or in Ensenada or Tijuana. Other large cities in Baja California include San Felipe, Playas de Rosarito and Tecate. Baja California has most recently been in the news due to a magnitude 7.2 earthquake that struck the state on April 4, 2010 near Mexicali. Most of the damage from the earthquake was in Mexicali and nearby Calexico. The earthquake was felt throughout the Mexican state and into Southern California cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. It was the largest earthquake to hit the region since 1892. continue reading below our video 4 Tips for Improving Test Performance The following is a list of ten geographic facts to know about Baja California: 1) It is believed that people first settled on the Baja Peninsula around 1,000 years ago and that the region was dominated by only a few Native American groups. Europeans did not reach the area until 1539.

2) Control of Baja California shifted between various groups in its early history and it was not admitted into Mexico as a state until 1952. In 1930, the Baja California peninsula was divided into northern and southern territories. However in 1952, the northern region (everything above the 28th parallel ) became the 29th state of Mexico, while southern areas remained as a territory. 3) As of 2005, Baja California had a population of 2,844,469. The dominant ethnic groups in the state are White/European and Mestizo or mixed American Indian or European. Native Americans and East Asians also make up a large percentage of the state's population. 4) Baja California is divided into five municipalities. They are Ensenada, Mexicali, Tecate, Tijuana and Playas de Rosarito. 5) As a peninsula, Baja California is surrounded by water on three sides with borders on the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. The state also has diverse topography but it is divided in the middle by the Sierra de Baja California or the Peninsular Ranges.

The largest of these ranges are the Sierra de Juarez and the Sierra de San Pedro Martir. The highest point of these ranges and of Baja California is Picacho del Diablo at 10,157 feet (3,096 m). 6) Between the mountains of the Peninsular Ranges are various valley regions which are rich in agriculture. However, the mountains also play a role in Baja California's climate as the western portion of the state is mild due to its presence near the Pacific Ocean, while the eastern portion lies on the leeward side of the ranges and is arid through much of its area. The Sonoran Desert which also runs into the United States is in this area. 7) Baja California is extremely biodiverse along its coasts. The Nature Conservancy calls the region "The World's Aquarium" as the Gulf of California and Baja California's shores are home to one-third of Earth's marine mammal species. California sea lions live on the state's islands while various types of whales, including the blue whale, breed in the region's waters. 8) The main source of water for Baja California is the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers.

The Colorado naturally empties into the Gulf of California; but, because of upstream uses it rarely reaches the area. The rest of the state's water comes from wells and dams but clean drinking water is a large issue in the region. 9) Baja California has one of the best educational systems in Mexico and over 90% of children aged six to 14 attend school. Baja California also has 32 universities with 19 serving as research centers in fields like physics, oceanography and aerospace. 10) Baja California also has a strong economy and is 3.3% of Mexico's gross domestic product. This is mainly through manufacturing in the form of maquiladoras . Tourism and service industries are also large fields in the state. References The Nature Conservancy. (n.d.). The Nature Conservancy in Mexico - Baja and the Gulf of California. Retrieved from: United States Geological Survey. (2010, April 5). Magnitude 7.2 - Baja California, Mexico. Retrieved from: #summary Wikipedia. (2010, April 5). Baja California - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia.

Retrieved from: Map of Baja Peninsula - Mexico Maps, Baja Peninsula Facts Landforms - World Atlas The Baja Peninsula (Baja California Peninsula) extends from Tijuana, near the U.S. border, to Cabo San Lucas - approximately 747 miles, (1202 km). It's divided into two Mexican states; Baja California Norte (north), and Baja California Sur (south). It's bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, which is alternately known as the"Sea of Cortes," named for Herman Cortes, a 16th century Spanish explorer. Archaeologists have concluded that the peninsula was separated from mainland Mexico by the San Andreas Fault, and over eons of time, the eastern edges were uplifted by tectonic plate movements and the lower areas then filled with seawater, thus forming the Gulf of California. The peninsula is mountainous, especially in the north and far south, and those mountains ring an inhospitable, rocky (and hot) desert landscape. Most tourists travel to the tropical south, visiting the city of La Paz and the resort communities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

A daily, reliable ferry service runs from La Paz to many cities on mainland Mexico's Gulf of California coastline. The Baja Peninsula landscape.... Want the Truth About Baja California Mexico. Can You Handle It!? - YouTube Want the Truth About Baja California Mexico. Can You Handle It!? Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. The interactive transcript could not be loaded. Loading... Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Uploaded on Oct 25, 2011 The News Tells you TO BE AFRAID OF BAJA MEXICO! Baja Mexico is a dangerous place! You would be crazy to travel to Baja Mexico. Who do you believe? Even your friends tell you not to go to Baja Mexico...but how many of them have been here lately? Would the Media LIE TO YOU ABOUT BAJA MEXICO? Are our friends telling you the truth? IF you are READY for the truth and want to see the Baja Mexico that I have lived in for the last 6 years then watch this video.

Category Baja California | state, Mexico | Britannica.com Baja California Alternative Title: Baja California Norte Related Topics Sebastián Vizcaíno Bay Baja California, also called Baja California Norte , estado (state), northwestern Mexico , bounded to the north by the United States ( California and Arizona) , to the east by the state of Sonora and the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), to the west by the Pacific Ocean , and to the south by the state of Baja California Sur . Its capital city, Mexicali , lies on the U.S.-Mexico border, opposite Calexico , California. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. The state occupies the northern half of the Baja California peninsula and consists of rugged granitic mountains, the Sierra de Juárez and the Sierra San Pedro Mártir . Much of the state is occupied by a westward extension of the Sonoran Desert . Coastal plains are narrow except in the extreme northeast, where the Colorado River has formed a delta.

However, the Colorado is now used so heavily upstream (mainly to supply crop irrigation and the population centres north of the border) that its remaining waters typically evaporate or seep into the desert before reaching the gulf. Although the state of Baja California has long been inhabited, settlement of the area has been sparse. The peninsula remained in Spanish possession until 1822, the year after Mexico gained its independence. In 1887 the peninsula was divided into two federal districts; the first capital of northern Baja California was at Ensenada . The district was redesignated as a federal territory in 1931 and became a state in 1952. The name was changed to Baja California Norte in 1974 to distinguish it from the newly created state of Baja California Sur, but by 1979 it was again officially called Baja California. State government is headed by a governor elected to a single six-year term. Members of the unicameral House of Deputies serve terms of three years. The legislature can levy taxes, but in reality the state depends on the federal government for most of its revenue.

Baja California is divided into five local governmental units called municipios (municipalities), each of which is headquartered in its largest town. Similar Topics Baja California - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up) A state of northwestern Mexico, Baja California occupies the northern half of the Baja (or Lower) California peninsula. It is also called Baja California Norte. The state of Baja California Sur covers the southern part of the peninsula. Baja California also borders the U.S. states of California and Arizona to the north, the Mexican state of Sonora and the Gulf of California (also called the Sea of Cortez) to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Its capital city, Mexicali, lies across the U.S.-Mexico border from Calexico, California. Article History La Paz, Baja California, Mexico | VisitMexico Listen It is not a coincidence that La Paz means “peace” in Spanish. Many tourists who drive the 1,000 miles from Tijuana on the Baja Peninsula and they get they reward: to La Paz are rewarded with a peaceful city and blissful weather.

With only 220,000 inhabitants, and being the region’s commercial and political centercapital of the state of Baja California Sur, La Paz is remains a tranquil, easy-to-love port . It has preserved with a nostalgic and provincial atmosphere that makes you think that little has changed here for decades. Even though Hernan Cortes visited La Paz back in 1535, this inhospitable land was barely populated until the 19th century. A Jesuit mission settlement built in 1720 was abandoned 30 years later, having endured Indian revolts, disease and Baja’s harsh environment. There was no permanent settlement here until 1811. In 1829 La Paz became California’s capital after Loreto was leveled by a hurricane. A strong pearl diving industry kept La Paz going until the 1930s when the oyster beds were destroyed by disease. La Paz languished until the trans-peninsular highway was completed in 1973 and the city became capital of the newly formed State of Baja California Sur in 1974.

Until the early 1970s, Baja California Sur had a population density of less than one inhabitant per square kilometer! Things haven’t changed radically, so you’ll find plenty of crowd-free spaces and isolated beaches. With the opening of the 1,680-km (1,044-mile) trans-peninsular highway, and the establishment of the peninsula’s southern region as Mexico’s newest state, La Paz began to attract not only adventurers, but also folks looking for a friendly and laidback holiday. If you prefer not to drive, no problem as direct international flights to Los Cabos and La Paz makes getting there a breeze. As well, Baja ferries run from La Paz to Mazatlan and Topolobampo. The opening of several resort hotels and an assortment of fun-in-the-sun amenities from golf courses and fine restaurants, to museums and restored colonial-era buildings provide tourists with plenty of choices once they arrive. Surrounded by barren desert, La Paz is set amidst ancient laurel trees and coconut and date palms. The city is laid out in classic grid fashion with streets radiating from the city’s northwest facing waterfront (Paseo Alvaro Obregon).

Running parallel to Paseo Obregon is the city’s lovely malecon (waterfront promenade). A few blocks inland is the main square with its pink quartz gazebo, tiled walkways and 19th century cathedral. El Mogote, a flat deserted sandbar, sits offshore. The city has some nice beaches, but only a few miles away, you’ll know heaven is a place on earththe beaches are superb. La Paz is not a massive beach resort, so, if you’re one of those people who you hate those 5000-room mega hotels, this is the place for you. La Paz sits on the Sea of Cortez that famous French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau dubbed “the aquarium of the world.” Bountiful flora and fauna make this one of the world’s top places for diving. Fishermen were surprised in early 90s when tourists arrived to hire them not to kill the marine life, but to observe and photograph whales whose feeding grounds have been here for centuries. Of course it was a new business opportunity. Today, whale watching is an expanding eco-friendly industry that is helping many low-income families to benefit from regional development.

Within easy reach of the city are deserted beaches, calm bays and pristine offshore islands. Further inland lie deserts, oases and the Sierra de La Laguna Mountains. The unspoiled natural environment brings sport fishermen, divers, eco-tourists, naturalists, whale watchers and travelers of all ages to this exquisitely peaceful corner of Mexico. Things to do Baja California Real Estate Learn More Baja California Real Estate is a professional real estate sales and marketing company for property located within the Tijuana/Ensenada corridor, including the Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's premiere wine country. Vacation property sales are one of our main specialties. Whether you are a seller looking for a buyer or a buyer looking for property, our services will benefit you. Baja California is a beautiful part of Mexico. It's coast is both rugged and beachfront. The hilly terrain going east from the coast is magnificent with its peaks and valleys where you will find small villages and towns, boutique wineries, restaurants and hotels dotted among its agricultural landscape. The Valle de Guadalupe is growing rapidly as greater attention is given to this part of the world for wine production. Many vintners are experiencing bountiful and prize winning harvests.

The Valle de Guadalupe is another specialty of ours. It's a very special and magical place to live or retire. The relaxed culture of art, beauty, wine, food and friends is a lifestyle you will enjoy forever. Residential areas from Rosarito, La Mision, Bajamar, El Sauzal, Ensenada, Punta Banda and La Bufadora along the Pacific coast offer a variety of types of real estate from high rise condominiums, to single family homes, ranch property, beachfront and leased land homes for every budget. The economy is good and getting better all the time with new international manufacturing plants bringing in business throughout the northern territory of Baja. This part of Mexico is of extreme value due to it's proximity to California and Arizona. It can be just minutes or a few hours drive or flight from many parts of the US including California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and other states making this an ideal location for all. Real Estate ​Attorneys WELCOME TO BAJA CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE Title and Escrow Baja California Facts Sign Up for a Trek Email usat: Office hours: Mon-Fri.

9 am-5 pm PST Baja (pronounced Ba-ha) comprises the two most western states of Mexico. Together they form the Baja Peninsula - the second longest peninsula on earth. Only the Malay Peninsula in southeast Asia is longer. The Baja Peninsula is longer than the U.S. State of California, which it is attached to on its northernmost boundary, and also longer than Italy, Germany and is slightly larger than twice the size of Florida. It is roughly 800 miles (1275 km) long and averages 75 miles wide with its narrowest point at just 26 miles wide. It is said to be the last true frontier in this part of the world. Baja Mexico can generally be considered warm and dry throughout the year. The northeast of Baja has desert throughout much of its area and has higher temperatures as a result. The northwest is cool by the Pacific Ocean and experiences lower temperatures on average during the winter. To the south Baja Sur gets more tropical. In between, there are many micro climates depending on location and altitude. Home to some of the world's friendliest people, Baja Mexico is spread out and sparsely populated.

Over 75% of the population lives along the northernmost border. It presently has an estimated total population of just under 3 million with almost half of these people living in the very northwest corner of the peninsula in the city of Tijuana. Baja California Mexico is the Second-longest peninsula on earth Longer north to south than the U.S. State of California Official language is Spanish with many indigenous languages spoken The Tijuana Border is the most crossed international border in the world Almost 75% of the Baja population lives in 2 cities located at the border it shares with the United States. Highest point is Picacho del Diablo (3100+ meters or 10,171+ feet) The only two-lane paved road that connects the north to the south was finally completed in 1973. “Remember what Bilbo used to say: It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.” - J.R.R. Tolkien Mexico Send me a copy Subject: Email addresses provided here will be used solely to email the link indicated.

They will not be saved, shared, or used again in any manner whatsoever. The CAPTCHA code you entered is not valid, please reenter the CAPTCHA code Mexico Official Name: United Mexican States Last Updated: July 18, 2016 Alerts & Warnings Yes, if visiting more than 180 days VACCINATIONS: Ciudad Juarez (Chihuahua): Paseo de la Victoria 3650, telephone. +52-656-227-3000. Guadalajara (Nayarit, Jalisco, Aguas Calientes, and Colima): Progreso 175, telephone +52-333-268-2100. Hermosillo (Sinaloa and the southern part of the state of Sonora): Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone +52-662-289-3500.

Matamoros (the southern part of Tamaulipas with the exception of the city of Tampico): Avenida Primera 2002, telephone +52-868-812-4402. Merida (Campeche, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo): Calle 60 no. 338-K x 29 y 31, Col. Alcala Martin, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico 97050, telephone +52-999-942-5700 or 202-250-3711 (U.S. number). Monterrey (Nuevo Leon, Durango, Zacatecas, San Luis Potosi, and the southern part of Coahuila):Prolongacion Ave. Alfonso Reyes No. 150, Col. Valle Poniente, Santa Catarina, Nuevo Leon, 66196, telephone +52-818-047-3100.

Nogales (the northern part of Sonora): Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone +52-631-311-8150. Nuevo Laredo (the northern part of Coahuila and the northwestern part of Tamaulipas): Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone +52-867-714-0512. Tijuana (Baja California Norte and Baja California Sur): Paseo de Las Culturas s/n Mesa de Otay, telephone +52-664-977-2000. All other Mexican states, the Federal District of Mexico City, and the city of Tampico, Tamaulipas, are part of the Embassy's consular district. The U.S.

Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico: 01-55-5080-2000. Consular Agencies: Acapulco: Hotel Emporio, Costera Miguel Aleman 121 – Suite 14, telephone +52-744-481-0100 or +52-744-484-0300. Cancún: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH Torre La Europea, Despacho 301 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico C.P. 77500, telephone +52-998-883-0272. Los Cabos: Las Tiendas de Palmilla Local B221, Carretera Transpeninsular Km.

27.5, San José del Cabo, BCS, Mexico 23406 telephone, +52-624-143-3566 Fax: +52-624-143-6750. Mazatlán: Playa Gaviotas #202, Zona Dorada, telephone +52-669-916-5889. Oaxaca: Macedonio Alcalá no. 407, interior 20, telephone +52-951-514-3054, +52-951-516-2853. Piedras Negras: Abasolo #211, Zona Centro, Piedras Negras, Coah., telephone, +52-878-782-5586.

Playa del Carmen: "The Palapa," Calle 1 Sur, between Avenida 15 and Avenida 20, telephone +52-984-873-0303 or 202-370-6708(U.S. number). Puerto Vallarta: Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros #1, Local #4, Interior #17, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, telephone +52-322-222-0069. San Miguel de Allende: Centro Comercial La Luciernaga, Libramiento Manuel Zavala (Pepe KBZON), telephone +52-415-152-2357. Destination Description See the State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations. Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements Visit the Mexican National Institute of Migration’s (Instituto Nacional de Migración, INM) website (Spanish) or the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. for the most current entry, exit, and visa requirements.

If you enter by land and plan to travel further than 25 kilometers into Mexico, you should stop at an immigration checkpoint to obtain an entry permit, or Forma Migratoria Multiple, to present at immigration checkpoints, even if not explicitly directed to do so by Mexican officials. For more information visit the INM website. If you enter by sea, review the Mexican boating permit requirements (Spanish) prior to travel or contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. for more information. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Mexico. INM requires a notarized consent document from one parent/legal guardian for all minors departing Mexico without both parents. Travelers should contact the Mexican Embassy in Washington, D.C., the nearest Mexican consulate, or INM for more information. Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page . Safety and Security Travelers are urged to review the Travel Warning for Mexico , which provides updated information about safety and security concerns affecting the country on a state-by-state basis. Demonstrations: Demonstrations are common and occur in all parts of Mexico.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations, and to exercise caution if in the vicinity of any protests. Travelers who encounter protesters demanding unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment. U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations and other activities that might be deemed political by the authorities as the Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners; such actions may result in detention and/or deportation. Crime: Crime in Mexico occurs at a high rate and can be violent. Street crime, ranging from pick-pocketing to armed robbery, carjackings, kidnapping, and extortion are serious problems in most major cities. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see high levels of violence and crime. See our Travel Warning on Mexico for exceptions. See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams. Credit/Debit Card “Skimming”: There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards.

If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Public Transportation/Taxis: When possible, travel by bus only during daylight hours and only by first-class conveyance. Robberies and assaults on passengers in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand (“libre taxis”) are common. Avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, telephone a radio taxi or "sitio" (regulated taxi stand), and ask the dispatcher for the driver's name and the taxi's license plate number. Application based car services such as Uber are also available in many larger Mexican cities. The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Mexico is “066.” Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call. Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local police to file a Mexican police report before departing Mexico. U.S. citizens should also inform the nearest U.S. Embassy, consulate, or consular agency (see the Department of State’s list of embassies and consulates ).

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. help you find appropriate medical care assist you in reporting a crime to the police contact relatives or friends with your written consent explain the local criminal justice process in general terms provide a list of local attorneys provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. help you find accommodation and arrange flights home replace a stolen or lost passport Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulates for assistance. Sexual Assault: Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in resort and other areas. Many of these incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, or on deserted beaches, or through drugging of drinks. Drug Smuggling: Mexican criminal organizations are engaged in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations have targeted unsuspecting individuals who regularly cross the border as a way to smuggle drugs to the United States. Frequest border crossers are advised to vary your routes, travel times, and closely monitor your vehicle to avoid being targeted. For further information: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips. Local Laws & Special Circumstances Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate immediately. The Mexican government is required by international law to place a call to the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate promptly when a U.S. citizen is arrested, if the arrestee so requests. This requirement does not apply to dual nationals. See our webpage for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report and Faith-Based Travel Information . Firearms and other Weapons: Weapon laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, or weapons of any kind. Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major problem, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. Visit the Department’s Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage , the Mexican Secretary of Defense page (Spanish only), and the Mexican Customs page (Spanish only) for more information. For more information about importing hunting weapons or ammunition into Mexico, contact ANGADI (Asociación Nacional de Ganaderos Diversificados Criadores de Fauna, Spanish only) at info@angadi.org.mx . For more information on firearms and ammunition issues in English, contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican Embassy or consulate.

Drugs and Prescription Medications: Carrying any form of marijuana into Mexico, even if it is accompanied by a prescription or medical marijuana license, is considered a federal offense and international drug trafficking. Offenders can expect large fines and/or jail sentences of up to 25 years. For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the Federal Commission for the Protection Against Sanitary Risk website (Spanish only) and the Mexican Drug Schedule list (Spanish only). U.S. citizens are advised to carry a copy of your prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that you may be subject to arrest for arriving to Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that medicines considered “over the counter” in the United States may be a controlled substance in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is considered a controlled substance in Mexico. For more information, contact the Mexican Embassy in Washington, D.C. Importing Medicines into Mexico: Visit the Mexican Health Department website (Spanish only) or contact the Mexican Embassy in Washington, D.C. for more information about obtaining a permit to import medicine into Mexico.

Storm Season: Mexico experiences strong winds or rain as a result of tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Pacific Coast between June and November. Some areas may also experience earthquakes. Please visit our Hurricane Season webpage for more information. Resort Areas and Spring Break: Millions of U.S. citizens visit Mexican beach resorts each year, especially during " spring break " season. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but it is not uniformly enforced. Warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water. U.S. citizens have drowned or disappeared at Mexican beaches and are advised to not swim alone in isolated beach areas. Boats used for excursions sometimes lack adequate life jackets, radios, tools to make repairs, and may not be covered by accident insurance. Mountain Climbing and Hiking: The Mexican government has declared the area around the Popocatepetl and the Colima Volcanoes off limits. In remote rural areas, there can be limited cell phone coverage and internet connectivity.

Question: In which country is Baja California
Answer: Mexico